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Pothos dolichophyllus Merr.

Introduction & Overview

Common and Scientific Names

  • Scientific Name: Pothos dolichophyllus Merr
  • Common Name: No common name

Quick Facts

  • Origin: Native region of Luzon, Philippines, part of the Malesian flora
  • Features: narrow, lanceolate leaves up to 35 cm long, evergreen, root-climbing liana

Taxonomy & Classification

  • Genus: Pothos
  • Botanical Background: Described by botanist Elmer Drew Merrill in 1916. Later treated as a variety of P. rumphii by Dan H. Nicolson in 1967 based on leaf morphology.

Natural Habitat & Distribution

  • Geographical Range: Endemic to lowland rainforests of Luzon, Philippines; recorded near Mt. Bulusan and Lucban at elevations around 300 m.
  • Environment: Thrives under shaded canopy with high humidity and stable temperatures. Grows in humus-rich, well-drained soils of tropical evergreen forests.

Morphological Characteristics

Leaves

  • Glossy, dark green, narrow lanceolate blades measuring 20–35 cm long by 3–5 cm wide

  • Slightly coriaceous texture

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

  • Typical Araceae structure
  • Small, cream-white spathe enclosing a compact spadix
  • Likely pollinated by forest-dwelling beetles

Growth Habit

  • Evergreen, root-climbing liana with adhesive aerial roots
  • Arises from a creeping rhizome with occasional tuberous swellings

Cultivation & Care

Light Requirements

  • Bright, indirect light mimicking understory conditions

  • Avoid direct sun to prevent leaf scorch 

Watering & Humidity

  • Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil dry
  • Maintain humidity above 50% for optimal growth 

Soil & Potting Mix

  • Use a chunky, well-aerated aroid mix combining orchid bark, perlite, and peat or coco coir 
  • Ensure containers have drainage holes

Temperature & Fertilizer

  • Ideal range 18–30 °C
  • Feed monthly during active growth with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer

Propagation Methods

Division

  • Rhizome division can also be used for older clumps

Stem Cuttings (if applicable)

  • Most easily propagated by stem cuttings

  • Include at least one node and aerial root

Seeds

  • Rare due to low availability and requires warm, moist conditions with light exposure for germination

Common Pests & Diseases

Typical Issues

  • Susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs
  • Root rot in poorly drained soils

Treatment Recommendations

  • Isolate affected plants
  • Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for pests
  • Improve drainage and reduce watering to combat root rot

Notable Traits & Uses

  • The species name dolichophyllus means "long-leaved," reflecting its most striking feature
  • In native forests, it provides habitat for small invertebrates
  • Valued by aroid collectors for its rare, narrow foliage and climbing habit

  • aAdding vertical interest in terrariums and shaded gardens

Conservation & Availability

Wild Population Status

  • Not formally assessed by IUCN
  • Limited known range suggests monitoring may be warranted

Market Availability

  • Rare in cultivation
  • Occasionally available through specialist aroid nurseries and plant societies

References & Resources

Further Reading

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